What Should I Expect From My Upper Eyelid Surgery?

Surgery of the upper eyelid is one of our most popular rejuvenative procedures.  Upper eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is popular for a number of reasons:

1. The recovery is relatively painless; most patients experience some itching of the skin around the incision as the skin heals.  
2. You are able to wear sunglasses and go out in public to run errands a few days after the surgery.
3. The result is apparent immediately after the surgery and improves as time goes on once the swelling and bruising have resolved.  
4. The scar is hidden in the crease of the eyelids.  As time goes on it becomes difficult to see.
5. Stitches come out a week later!

Below are the postoperative recommendations that we give to all of our patients in preparation for the surgery.  

BLEPHAROPLASTY (EYELID SURGERY)

Postoperative Instructions
Blepharoplasty usually causes little if any postoperative pain.  If you notice significant sharp or dull pain that persists, notify my office immediately, (301) 652 - 8191.

Sleep on your back with your head elevated.

Icing for the first 36 hours after surgery will improve your healing (see protocol on the back).

Avoid aspirin or aspirin-containing pain medications.

You may use your eyes for reading or TV viewing as frequently as you wish.

Apply the prescribed ointment to the incision three times a day. Use sparingly, placing only a thin amount on the incision lines.

Do not use contact lenses for at least two weeks.  Pulling on the eyelids while inserting or removing lenses may interfere with precise incision healing.  Glasses may be used at any time.

Do not use mascara, eyeliner, or eye shadow until approved by us (usually 10-14 days).  Minimal makeup applied to any bruising of the lower lid is acceptable at any time, but do not pull on the lids or incisions.

Any apparent redness of the whites of the eyeball is only a form of bruising and will subside during the early healing process.

Do not engage in vigorous exercise or sports for at least 3 weeks, or until approved by us.

Stitches are removed at different times after surgery depending upon the extent of surgery, type of stitches, underlying medical issues and the type and quality of your skin.  We will advise you accordingly.

It is not abnormal to feel a slight itching and tightness of the eyelids during the early healing period.

We greatly appreciate the confidence you have shown in us by allowing us to assist you in improving your appearance and health, and you may be assured of our best efforts to achieve the most satisfactory surgical result possible for your individual anatomy and condition.

Contents of your postoperative recovery bag:
Eye pads
Sterile water
Baggies
 
Pickup:
Frozen vegetables
Prescriptions
 
Icing Protocol:

Prior to the surgery, make 6-8 baggies of frozen vegetables and store them in your freezer for after surgery.

Pour the sterile water on the eye pads.

Place the eye pads over your eyes and apply the baggies of frozen vegetables over the eye pads.

Change as they become warm.

There is no need to ice overnight, while eating or walking.

Chevy Chase Facial Plastic Surgery is dedicated to helping you love your reflection!